Kai was one of my first students and it is spectacular that three years later he has just started at Tonbridge School with an academic scholarship. Prior to doing so we helped his family to choose Aldro school as an ideal all-boys prep boarding environment where he could become used to the British boarding system, gain an enjoyment for extra curriculars in a traditional school and gain the all-important references from a prep school headmaster. Kai found the transition to boarding life at a young age challenging but ultimately the experience gave him added maturity, he achieved an excellent offer from a top academic school with scholarship and he has found friends for life.

When Kai's parents first came into BE they were not under the impression they had an especially gifted son

They were very surprised when I told them that his personality, academic scores and range of extra-curriculars meant I thought he should apply for the top all boys boarding schools in the UK. At interview Kai told me of his prize-winning art, participation in team sports (ice hockey and basketball) as well as drumming. He scored well across the board in our online test and his English was strong. Most importantly he had strength in conversation, clearly thinking on his feet and showing academic curiosity relating to space and science in particular. That curiosity, self-confidence, and range of extra curriculars indicated that he was the kind of chap who could aim high for school choices. As such we chose Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge and Wellington. Not easy choices at all but with the assurance that if Kai did not have success, he would already be at a British prep school and could reapply after.

When Kai's parents first came into BE they were not under the impression they had an especially gifted son

They were very surprised when I told them that his personality, academic scores and range of extra-curriculars meant I thought he should apply for the top all boys boarding schools in the UK. At interview Kai told me of his prize-winning art, participation in team sports (ice hockey and basketball) as well as drumming. He scored well across the board in our online test and his English was strong. Most importantly he had strength in conversation, clearly thinking on his feet and showing academic curiosity relating to space and science in particular. That curiosity, self-confidence, and range of extra curriculars indicated that he was the kind of chap who could aim high for school choices. As such we chose Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge and Wellington. Not easy choices at all but with the assurance that if Kai did not have success, he would already be at a British prep school and could reapply after.

Kai had an offer from Tonbridge whilst being placed on the waiting list for Eton and Harrow

Assessment days came and went and Kai had an offer from Tonbridge whilst being placed on the waiting list for Eton and Harrow. No offer from Wellington sadly. This did not mean he gave up, it spurred him on to work harder at school hoping to get off the waiting list and secure a firm offer. The change in waiting list did not come but the diligence paid off as he was able to secure a scholarship at Tonbridge when the opportunity came. Bravo!